Southern Charm


I came upon this location last Summer by mistake when I was on my way over to a museum and thought how perfect it would be for a photo shoot someday. And here we are … but there were some troubles along the way …

I had a wardrobe malfunction on the side zip of this skirt and the only options I had were to drive 30 mins back home or use a pair of extra earrings laying in the bottom of my bag …

Of course I wasn’t going waste the day so I went with the latter option and received these photos in return. I paired it here with this tee I purchased from Mango almost two years ago. But it’s a great, neutral piece that pairs well with many things.

I also loved the southern charm this place exudes. It’s definitely more beautiful with the white blooms but there weren’t any that day.

XO – Valentine

Mango Top* (Similar HERE & HERE) | Storets Skirt | F21 Bag | Marc Fisher Heels | F21 Earrings* (Similar HERE)

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Strange Spring Days


Spring is such a strange season. It was warm and sunny one day and then it dropped 10 degrees and was cold and windy. Sometimes it’ll rain out of nowhere while you’re out shopping at the flea market, which is what happened after this shoot.

Nonetheless, this floral short definitely made up for the dreary weather.

XO – Valentine

Zara Moto Jacket* (Similar HERE) | H&M Blouse* (Similar HERE) | F21 Floral Shorts | Sam Edelman Pumps* (Similar HERE) | Zara Bag* (Similar HERE & HERE)
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Dots & Pearl-Beaded Handbag


I always find photo shoot days to be more fun when the wind is playing prop. Its natural ability to dance with the dress makes this photo more lively and candid.

On another note, I feel like I’m channeling someone from another era with the dots and pearl beaded handbag. It could be the hair that’s tying everything in. But let’s talk about this little bag for a moment. I had something really similar growing up in the 90’s. The one then was red and pink. And I am definitely loving the repeating trends!

How do you feel about what’s trending? Do you love it or hate it?

XO – Valentine

F21 Dress | Soludos Espadrilles | F21 Handbag | F21 Earrings*
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Quality Basics & Trends

This top is OUT OF THIS WORLD. I fell in love with it the moment I saw it online at Forever 21. I know not everyone is a fan of the “low quality” items you find on their site but in my opinion, they actually have some really nice pieces when you sift through it.

Some other places you can find great trendy items are Mango, H&M, and Zara. These stores are perfect if you want to find pieces that are in for a couple of seasons or so. For basics, I usually like to spend more because I wear them daily. But for items that I know will only last through Spring & Summer or Fall & Winter, I spend no more then $50 … unless I absolutely love it and can wear it 3 different ways within a week.

For quality basics, Nordstrom, Club Monaco and Aritzia are my go to’s. Club Monaco is quite pricy compared to the basics you see at the other two locations mentioned, but it definitely is a good place to check.

I’ve learned to set my limits for on trend pieces so that my bank account isn’t screaming at me after a big purchase. Lol. The steps I take include ‘making a checklist’ for on-trend items I would like to purchase as well as ‘how much I’m willing to spend’ on it.

This little handbag is from Zara which was a good find for warmer months. I was actually on the hunt for one when I walked into the store and I beelined so quick for it! 😀

What are some of your favorite places to shop for trendy clothes and accessories? Do you spend more on quality basics or on ‘what’s in’ at the moment?

XO – Valentine

F21 Top | Zara Denim*(Similar HERE & HERE) | Zara handbag*(Similar HERE & HERE) | Sam Edelman Pumps | H&M Scarf*(Similar HERE & HERE)
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Utility Pant Styled


… I gave up on utility pants a long time ago because I could never find the perfect length or cut for my stature. But then I went on Express looking to purchase a dress for an upcoming wedding and I saw this pant. In it went into my basket and I couldn’t wait for it! It was everything and more when it arrived. And no I did not find a dress if you’re wondering, but I found my love for this item again.

XO – Valentine

H&M Top | Express Pants | BCBGeneration Mules* (Similar HERE & HERE) | Chloe Faye Dupe (Amazon)
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Raging Red


For a time I stopped purchasing items from H&M after watching the documentary ‘The True Cost’ a few months ago. It was definitely eye opening and it really made me think about where clothing items are being made and who was effected. After careful research, the company has been making great strides and so I decided I would give them a go again.
I have always had a place for H&M so I was initially upset at what was happening. But with the changes the company has made and is continuing, I am ecstatic for the pieces I can purchase without a doubt in my mind on how it’s made and where it’s coming from.
This skirt being one of the items this Spring that I’m excited about. I typically stick to a neutral palette with some color play here and there. But this print is definitely different and I love it! I also happen to have just the perfect tee to pair with it. And I added the knot on the top to add a relaxed feel.

Have you watched ‘The True Cost’? If yes, what did you think about it? If you haven’t had the chance yet, you must. 🙂

XO – Valentine

J. Crew Tee* | H&M Skirt*(Similar HERE & HERE) | Cult Gaia Dupe (Amazon) | Soludos Espadrilles
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Classic Timepiece


It’s always important to me to feel good when wearing something. I LOVE clothes (if you can’t already tell from my feed 😉 ). But it’s also essential for me to choose great accessories to complete the outfit.

And this watch is all the rage right now in my collection. I love how sleek it is, with the marbleized face and grey tones which completely matches my style.

I also think it’s great for you to have that timeless piece as part of your wardrobe. Therefore, I am partnering with @jordwatches to give one lucky winner $100 towards their very own Jord watch!

🔎 Follow this link: www.jordwatches.com/g/cllstaffairs to enter this amazing giveaway.** The winning entrant will be notified via email in a few weeks and all other applicants will receive 10% off their first order.

Best of luck and I can’t wait to see who wins!

XO – Valentine

Loony for Chanel

Would Coco Chanel be proud? …I’d like to believe so. Though she probably would’ve have taken one or two things down to add some boyish charm to this look. But I wouldn’t mind because she was iconic.

XO – Valentine

Zara Tweed Jacket* (Similar HERE & HERE) | Zara Tweed Skirt* (Similar HERE & HERE) | H&M Blouse* (Similar HERE & HERE) | Target Bag* (Similar HERE & HERE) | Charles David Pumps* (Similar HERE) | Chanel Earrings*
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Little White Dress

I will be living in this LWD all Spring and Summer! But if you know me personally, I don’t wear many dresses or skirts because I’m more of a denim or pants and tee kind of gal, but when I do … I run into this continuous circle where I wear dresses or skirts for days! It’s funny how that works.

What do you think about dresses? Have a favorite? Please share .. I don’t mind adding another one to my collection .. LOL 😉

Free People Dress* (Similar HERE & HERE) | Sam Edelman Booties* (Similar HERE & HERE) | Michael Kors Bag* (Similar HERE & HERE) | F21 Star Earrings* (Similar HERE) | Express Sunglasses
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